Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding #SundaySupper

I caved. I am the proud new owner of a Netflix subscription. I’ve debated the issue for awhile now with everyone talking about House of Cards and Orange is the New Black. Finally one night when I didn’t have anything to watch and didn’t want to start a movie, I signed up for my free trial, knowing once that happened and I began watching the shows, I would be hooked forever.

It’s not as though I don’t have enough summer TV to watch. The days of repeats and boring specials are gone. My nights are filled with Rookie Blue, Suits, Covert Affairs, Royal Pains, Masterchef, Big Brother, Perception, and more. Sometimes I think I have more summer shows than fall ones! But those few moments of wanting something new and exciting to watch led me to figure out how to sign up for my Netflix trial, activate it on my TiVo, and put some shows in My List, all without leaving the comfort of my couch.

It seems Netflix doesn’t have much to offer in terms of movies, particularly new ones, meaning my OnDemand addiction isn’t likely to go anywhere, but that’s okay because within a few moments of having Orange is the New Black on my TV, and getting used to occasional pauses for “Retrieving” I was hooked. I finished season 1 and am now working my way through House of Cards season 1, trying to spread out the awesomeness. I also plan on working my way through Breaking Bad and Dexter. How did I miss out on Netflix this long?

In between all my Netflix viewing, I have definitely been enjoying the summer weather and summer foods. I love lighter, more refreshing foods that are often served cold in the summer, which is a good thing, as this week’s Sunday Supper is all about foods served chilled. While I still love a nice, hot bowl of oatmeal in the mornings, sometimes I crave something nice and cool. That’s why I’ve recently become obsessed with Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding.

It is so easy to make and best served straight from the refrigerator. I wasn’t sure if I’d like it, but the texture is rather comforting, quite creamy and smooth. The chia seeds don’t really stand out but are packing a stealthy nutritional punch. Vanilla bean paste is the secret ingredient that offers a pleasant scent and even better flavor. To further celebrate summer, I like topping it with fresh berries. If you’re looking for a light, healthy dessert, this would also fit the bill and keep you cool! Regardless this is one tasty treat that also happens to be easy to make, healthy, gluten free, and vegan. If I make this more, I’ll have plenty of time to watch Netflix!

In a medium bowl stir together milk, chia seeds, and vanilla bean paste until well combined. Refrigerate for about 12 hours, stirring once during the process. I prefer the flavor when I leave the pudding uncovered, but you may cover it with plastic wrap. Serve cold with fresh fruit.

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You need to start watching House of Cards immediately!!! It is one of my top 2 favorite shows of all time. Just be prepared to get hooked on it big time. Carve out 2 days and just have a marathon to get caught up in the 2 seasons 🙂

Netflix is so so addicting!! I’m surprised you can hold on and not binge watch house of cards lol! I’m currently hooked on homeland but that’s not on Netflix but on show time and it’s my summer addiction. I love chia pudding as breakfast. Always so filling!!

Ah Netflix! It’s great for working your way through those tv shows without interruptions! Your recipe looks so easy and delicious too! I love how healthy it is and sneaking in those seeds is a great idea!!

Congrats on the Netflix subscription! You will love it – they also have a great selection of esoteric foreign films and cooking movies! I’ve not had chia before and have been feeling a little left out, maybe your pudding is the perfect way to conquer my Chia seed fear….

Yes! Netflix is awesome. For years I got the DVDs in the mail and would religiously watch them and send them back immediately for a new one. Now I kind of go on and off with the streaming subscription. Definitely ON when House of Cards has a new season!

This dish is perfect for summer chilling! I haven’t tried cooking very much with chia seeds yet, but I’m very tempted to give them a try soon.

I really need to get on the chia seed bandwagon — this looks so good! We get the Netflix movies (through the mail) but thus far have resisted signing up for their streaming service. Resistance probably is futile, though. 😉